Not all federal earmarks are pork, says U.S. Rep. Dale E. Kildee, and he's working to get money for local projects, and a $50 billion loan guarantee for the auto industry.

Kildee, D-Flint, told business leaders Friday at a Bay Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon in Frankenlust Township that earmarks in appropriation bills have gotten a bad rap.

He makes no apologies for the earmarks he's secured, including $1.34 million for a new terminal building at MBS International Airport and $2 million in annual funding for dredging the Saginaw River over the last several years.

He said Bay City businesses send plenty of money to Washington, D.C., and "it's important that we get this money returned here."

"The federal government can be a good partner for business and economic growth in the tri-city area," Kildee said.

He represents the 5th Congressional District, which covers parts of Bay and Saginaw counties and all of Tuscola and Genesee counties.

Kildee said that even though MBS, near Freeland, lies outside his district, it serves his constituents and is "the front door for the tri-city community."

Kildee said he's also worked to secure $2.16 million for the reconstruction of Henry Street in Bay City, a project that's still ongoing.

Kildee said earmarks have been around since George Washington and the first Congress and account for less than 1 percent of the federal budget.

"It tells that agency where to spend the money," he said.

"A bureaucrat in Washington would not know what Henry Street needs."

On the auto industry, Kildee said he's been working with U.S. Rep. John Dingell, D-Dearborn, to convince House and Senate leaders of the need for a $50 billion loan guarantee, to allow automakers and their major suppliers, like Delphi, to retool and develop cleaner and greener vehicles.

Kildee, co-chair of the Congressional Automotive Caucus, said he hopes to see the loan proposal brought up shortly after the House goes back into session on Monday.

Kildee said auto companies will end up paying back the money and the federal government will eventually make a profit, just as it did with the Chrysler loan guarantee years ago.

"The auto industry is essential to the rest of the economy," as a principal buyer of everything from steel to rubber, glass and computer chips, Kildee said.

"I just feel that we have to help that industry."

Michael D. Seward, president of the local chamber, praised Kildee's work on securing funds for roads, dredging and working to help the auto industry.

"His leadership on helping to make things happen is significant," Seward said.

He said a loan guarantee would benefit Powertrain plants in Bay City and Saginaw.